Baghdad, Iraq – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi arrived in Najaf on Monday aboard a private plane for a personal visit. He came to participate in the Arba’een pilgrimage to the shrine of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him). Moreover, he will visit the shrine of Imam Ali (peace be upon him). He was received upon arrival by the Governor of Najaf, Yousef Kanawi. Mehr News Agency reported that Araqchi arrived in Najaf on Monday afternoon to undertake this religious visit. He will also participate in the Arba’een ceremonies.
In a related development, the Security Media Cell announced on Monday that more than 4.8 million pilgrims have entered Iraq to commemorate the Arba’een pilgrimage. The Security Media Cell’s Arba’een Pilgrimage Command Center stated that the Command Center, located within the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, continues to implement the security and service plan for the pilgrimage. This is being done in coordination with all security, service, and support agencies to ensure the smooth flow of pilgrims. In addition, efforts are underway to provide the highest levels of efficiency at border crossings and main routes. All of this is being carried out with the direct support and supervision of the Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
The statement added that updated statistics as of last night showed the total number of visitors arriving in Iraq since the beginning of Muharram had reached 4,887,660. There is a continued influx of pilgrims from various countries to commemorate Arba’een. It noted that security forces and supporting agencies are continuing to carry out their field duties according to the established plans, under the supervision and monitoring of the Supreme Committee for Million-Person Pilgrimages. Furthermore, security, organizational, and service measures are also being strengthened to accommodate the continuous increase in the number of visitors. These measures ensure the smooth flow of pilgrims. As a result, they aim to provide a safe and stable environment throughout the pilgrimage period.
